
© Copyright: Vittorio Tessera
© Copyright: Vittorio Tessera
The DL/GP series replaced the Li, Special, SX and TV models in 1969. Known internationally as the DL, it was marketed in the UK as the GP, similar to the GT designation. This marked a turning point as the "Gran Prix Models" overtook the "Gran Turismo Models" in popularity. Advertising slogans such as "Real Stopper" or "Real Goer" emphasised this trend. The DL was available in three displacement classes, and all engines were significantly improved.
The design of the bodywork, designed by Nuccio Bertone, was modernised: shorter and tighter. The Legshield was lower, as was the Horn Cover, while the Steering Head and Headlight Units were now rectangular. The mudguard was given a sportier look. The shorter Fork, the rims and the Brake Drum shimmered in silver. The Rear Light was made of black plastic, with chrome trim being replaced by black plastic parts. The no-frills Side Panels featured vertical black rally stripes in the centre and black dummy radiator grilles in the front third.
Several small modifications were made during the production period of the DL/GP models. Initially, the horn grille and the Grill under the Seat were painted in the same colour as the vehicle. These were later replaced by unpainted black plastic parts. The aluminium levers for the Fuel Tap and Choke as well as the grey plastic of the glove compartment were also replaced with black plastic. In the last DL/GP Models, the Studs and Nuts on the Engine Cover were dispensed with and replaced with Screws.
In the first version of the DL/GP (January 1969 to mid-1970), the Horn Grille, the Filler Cap Flap and the Grill under the Seat were made of metal. In the second version (mid-1970 to April 1971), the horn grille, the fuel filler flap and the Grill under the Seat were made of plastic.
The most significant further development of the DL 200 was the introduction of the DL 200 electronic Model. A conspicuous Sticker on the right-hand side of the Legshield signalled that this vehicle was equipped with an electronic Ignition. This Ignition was developed in co-operation with Ducati and was ahead of its time, being introduced a decade before other similar systems still used in scooters today. More precise production figures for the Lambretta DL 200 electronic are not known, as it was manufactured from June 1970 in parallel with the models with conventional contact ignition.
By April 1971, the last DL/GP scooters had left the Innocenti production facilities. With 15,300 125cc models, 21,050 150cc models and 9,302 200cc models produced, the numbers were not particularly high. The production line, including the Tools, was sold to India, where production of the GP 200 continued.
The modifications to the DL 200 Engine mainly concerned the Carburettor, the Gearbox, the Crankshaft and the Ignition. The overall gear ratio of 5.22 was significantly shorter than the 4.80 of the SX 200 gearbox, which enabled the Engine to rev fully even under difficult conditions. The gearbox, taken over from the Li125S, was given a longer ratio with an 18/47 pinion combination. In combination with the SH 22 Carburettor, the DL 200 reached a top speed of 110 km/h and improved acceleration. Although a few DL Models were originally supplied with Bellows with overflow valve, this feature was soon removed.
The DL 200 or GP 200 is the most sought-after model on the used market. It was only built around 9,000 times. It also represents the top and at the same time the end of the models produced by Innocenti. Models with electronic Ignition are particularly sought after and reach dizzying price ranges. Where do you look for this vehicle?
At your favourite Lambretta dealer
Classified adverts in the local newspaper
Markets and trade fairs such as Mostra Scambis in Italy
Online marketplaces such as www.mobile.de, www.autoscout24.de etc.
On the Italian market, the DL 200 was delivered in an ochre colour, whereas the export markets could choose between ochre and red.
Colour | Colour name | Colour code | Colour info |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Giallo Ocra | 8080 | |
Rosso | 8073 | GB |
Our online exploded views for scooters make it much easier for you to find the right part. Each item is assigned exactly to the corresponding vehicle, with year of manufacture and chassis number. From our Expo lists, you can navigate directly to the spare parts, where a photo and a description are then available for almost every part. Conversely, you can also navigate from the item detail to the corresponding exploded view.